Not at all what I expected when I walked into the theater, The Yin Yang master wound up being a pleasant surprise in the long run. A Mix of Fantasy, horror, adventure comedy, you name it, this film is all over the multi-genre spectrum. I think it's the even balance of all these elements that allows the film to succeed on nearly every level, which is quite commendable.

The story is extremely long and complicated so I'll do my darndest to sum it up. The Yin Yang Masters are magicians who are the protectors of the Heian Empire. Doson (The Head Yin if u will) is extremely resentful against just about everyone, but especially the multi-talented Seimei. Doson decides it would be a great idea to overthrow the emperor through a host of unique spells (including turning people into demons and a bizarre death spell on The Emperor's newborn). Deimei enlists the help of Hiromasa to thwrat the plans of Doson and restore peace and normalcy to the empire.

The Yin-Yang Master is an epic tale told in grand old-school style. The film is highlighted with great sets and locations, sweeping camera shots, extremely detailed costumes and inventive CGI effects. Everything is top notch and extremely detailed from the great dialogue with hints of comedy to the dead on performances from just about everyone involved. This is not a fast paced film with lots of edits and flashing colors (which is what I expected). The film is executed so well that I was able to switch modes immediately and enjoy the film as is.

The Yin Yang Master makes for an extremely original movie-going experience (much like the rest of the films we've seen in the festival). This is not going to be an easy movie-going experience. You will be challenged so if you're looking for the easy way out, this film may not be for you. Mindless action it is not, an extremely entertaining thought provoking cinematic experience it is.

Thumbs up.